Written By Ann Forstenzer
My husband and I have just returned from another wonderful trip to Portugal, and once again, I was reminded of how special this beautiful country is! From charming historic towns and spectacular coastlines to delicious food and welcoming people, Portugal has something for everyone.
If you haven't visited yet, add Portugal to your bucket list! Whether you're planning a romantic European getaway, a family vacation, or a cultural adventure, this destination offers unforgettable experiences.
As a travel advisor specializing in upscale European travel for couples and families, I love helping clients discover destinations that combine culture, relaxation, and adventure. Here's what I recommend when planning your Portugal vacation.
Exploring Portugal: Getting Around
One of the things I love about Portugal is how easy it is to explore. The country is relatively compact, and trains connecting major destinations are generally affordable and convenient. Uber is widely available in popular cities, and renting a car is an option if you'd like to explore the countryside.
You can experience Portugal through guided tours, independent travel, day trips, or a scenic Douro River cruise. Combining different travel styles can make your vacation even more memorable. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, so navigating the country is relatively easy.
On our most recent trip, my husband and I explored the Algarve and Alentejo regions.
The Algarve, in southern Portugal, is famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The Alentejo offers a quieter experience, with historic towns, Roman and Moorish influences, cork oak forests, olive groves, and beautiful countryside.
Both regions are wonderful, but if this is your first visit, I recommend prioritizing Lisbon and Porto.
Essential Portugal Travel Tips
- Pack comfortable walking shoes. Portuguese cities are full of hills and cobblestone streets that can become slippery when wet.
- Travel during shoulder season. May, June, September, and October can offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak summer.
- Choose your hotel carefully. Portugal can get very hot, so confirm that your accommodations offer reliable air conditioning.
- Download travel apps. Offline maps and a translation app make exploring easier.
- Plan ahead. Popular hotels, tours, and restaurants can book up quickly. Check local holidays, as some attractions and shops may close.
And don't forget to stop for coffee and a pastel de nata, Portugal's delicious custard tart!
Lisbon: Where to Begin Your Adventure
Lisbon is a wonderful introduction to Portugal, with historic neighborhoods, colorful buildings, panoramic viewpoints, and fantastic food.
My first recommendation is a tuk-tuk tour on your first day. These small, open-air vehicles navigate Lisbon's narrow streets and steep hills, allowing you to see the city without spending hours walking. English-speaking guides can introduce you to the history, landmarks, and neighborhoods.
Afterward, explore on foot and enjoy a meal at the popular Time Out Market, an indoor food hall featuring a variety of food vendors.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Baixa is centrally located and convenient for sightseeing. Chiado offers shopping, cafés, and cultural attractions, while Alfama is known for its historic streets and traditional atmosphere.
My husband and I tend to prefer quieter hotels away from the busiest tourist areas. The best location depends on your preferences, budget, and travel style.
Visiting Lisbon With Children
Portugal can be a wonderful family destination. The Lisbon Oceanarium, tile-painting activities, cooking classes, and local markets offer engaging experiences for younger travelers. Families with strollers should plan carefully because Lisbon's hills and cobblestones can be challenging.
For something special, older children may enjoy an evening of traditional Fado music alongside Portuguese cuisine.
Great Day Trips From Lisbon
- Sintra: Discover romantic palaces, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture.
- Cascais: Enjoy a charming seaside town with waterfront views, shops, and restaurants.
- Coimbra: Explore one of Europe's oldest university cities, famous for its academic traditions and historic buildings.
These destinations are excellent additions to a Portugal itinerary, depending on how much time you have.
Portuguese Food: What to Try
Food is one of my favorite parts of traveling in Portugal. Seafood is everywhere, and dining can be more affordable than in the United States, depending on where you eat.
Try grilled sardines, fresh seafood, and bacalhau, the salted cod featured in countless Portuguese dishes. Despite its popularity in Portugal, cod traditionally comes from North Atlantic fisheries rather than being exclusively harvested in Portuguese waters.
For a special evening in Lisbon, consider SEEN Lisboa for stylish dining and impressive city views. In Porto, TAPISCO is worth considering for its contemporary Iberian-inspired cuisine and drinks. Check current menus and availability before booking.
Porto: River Cruises, Historic Streets and Port Wine
Porto is another must-see destination, offering historic architecture, beautiful river views, and a distinctive culinary scene.
A Douro River sightseeing cruise is a wonderful way to admire Porto from the water while sailing beneath its famous six bridges. If you have more time, consider a longer river cruise into the Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards and wine-producing traditions.
Other highlights include:
- Livraria Lello: A beautiful historic bookstore famous for its ornate interior and dramatic staircase.
- São Bento Station: Admire its remarkable blue-and-white Portuguese tile panels.
- Port wine cellars: Learn about the region's wine-making heritage through a guided visit or tasting.
- Aveiro: Take a day trip to this charming canal city, often nicknamed the Venice of Portugal.
Porto offers a wonderful balance of sightseeing, food, culture, and relaxation.
Can You Combine Portugal With Another Destination?
Absolutely! Depending on your available time, Portugal can be combined with Spain, Morocco, or the Azores.
My advice is to avoid squeezing too many destinations into one trip. A thoughtfully planned itinerary allows you to enjoy each place without feeling rushed.
Remember to check passport and entry requirements for your nationality and travel dates. I also recommend keeping essential medications, travel documents, and a change of clothing in your carry-on.
Let Me Plan Your Portugal Vacation
I specialize in upscale European travel for couples and families, creating personalized itineraries that reflect each client's interests, preferences, and budget.
Whether you're dreaming of Lisbon's historic streets, Porto's riverside charm, the Algarve's beautiful beaches, or the peaceful countryside of the Alentejo, I can help arrange accommodations, tours, transportation, excursions, and memorable dining experiences.
Portugal has captured my heart more than once, and I'd love to help you discover why!
Ready to plan your Portugal vacation? Contact me at Magic Family Getaways to start creating a personalized European getaway designed around you.
Magic Family Getaways head office is based in Montclair, NJ and a nationally recognized, award winning travel agency